Jenas last Minute Strike puts Spain in Next Round as Italy rides Ireland to Move

esus Navas scored a dramatic late winner as Spain produced a nervy and unconvincing performance to qualify for the quarter-finals of Euro 2012.

The Seville winger walked in Andres Iniesta's clever pass two minutes from time to break Croatia hearts and ensure the champions top Group C.

Alan Pardew, Newcastle Manager said ""Spain taking Fernando Torres off with half an hour left was a bit of a risk for the manager but it paid off because the substitute Jesus Navas scored the goal. There was a gap in the Croatian defence for the first time and I think Iniesta and Navas were both onside. But Spain weren't brilliant, and if I was in the England squad, I wouldn't be worried watching that." "



Italy earned the victory they needed against an already eliminated Republic of Ireland to go through to the last eight of Euro 2012.

Ireland started with purpose but went behind when Antonio Cassano headed in a near post Andrea Pirlo corner.

An equaliser would have knocked Italy out and their keeper Gianluigi Buffon smartly saved a Keith Andrews strike.
Andrews was sent off for a second booking before Mario Balotelli volleyed in to settle Italian nerves.

Italy still had to endure a few more anxious moments as a Croatia equaliser against Spain in the other Group C game would have meant they were out of the tournament.